While takeoff on the right offers good Shanghai views, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with West Lake and the surrounding landscape. The left side captures the most visually interesting portion of this short route.
Flown PVG to HGH? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Shanghai to Hangzhou is 103 miles (166 km), a flight of about 30 minutes.
The flight path travels southwest across the Yangtze River delta plain. You'll pass over numerous small towns, agricultural fields, and waterways characteristic of the delta region. The terrain gradually transitions from the flat, densely-developed Shanghai area to the slightly more undulating landscape approaching Hangzhou. The Qiantang River becomes visible in the final approach phase, marking the entry into the Hangzhou valley.
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Phase by phase
Takeoff from PVG
RIGHTRight side offers immediate views of the Huangpu River and Pudong's skyline as you climb out westward. The river curves distinctly below, and you'll see the urban grid of Shanghai's financial district receding beneath you.
Landing at HGH
LEFTLeft side provides excellent views during descent into Hangzhou. You'll see the West Lake (Xihu) and surrounding hills as you approach from the northeast, plus the Qiantang River valley which guides the descent path.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) to Xiaoshan (HGH)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Shanghai to Hangzhou. While takeoff on the right offers good Shanghai views, the landing approach on the left provides more dramatic and distinctive scenery with West Lake and the surrounding landscape. The left side captures the most visually interesting portion of this short route.
What can I see during takeoff from Shanghai Pudong International in Shanghai?
During takeoff from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers immediate views of the Huangpu River and Pudong's skyline as you climb out westward. The river curves distinctly below, and you'll see the urban grid of Shanghai's financial district receding beneath you. Notable sights include: Huangpu River, Pudong financial district skyline, Yangtze River estuary (distant), Shanghai urban sprawl.
What can I see when landing at Xiaoshan in Hangzhou?
When landing at Xiaoshan (HGH), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides excellent views during descent into Hangzhou. You'll see the West Lake (Xihu) and surrounding hills as you approach from the northeast, plus the Qiantang River valley which guides the descent path. Notable sights include: West Lake (Xihu), Qiantang River, Hangzhou urban area, Tianmu Mountain range (distant).
How long is the flight from Shanghai to Hangzhou?
The flight from Shanghai Pudong International (PVG) to Xiaoshan (HGH) takes about 30 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 103 miles (166 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Shanghai to Hangzhou flight path pass over?
The flight path travels southwest across the Yangtze River delta plain. You'll pass over numerous small towns, agricultural fields, and waterways characteristic of the delta region. The terrain gradually transitions from the flat, densely-developed Shanghai area to the slightly more undulating landscape approaching Hangzhou. The Qiantang River becomes visible in the final approach phase, marking the entry into the Hangzhou valley.